Brown University · BiochemistryAtwood Neurovirology Lab
Walter J Atwood · Providence, Rhode Island
Research Focus
Walter J Atwood's lab at Brown University focuses on understanding Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML), a severe brain disease caused by the JC virus, especially in patients with weak immune systems like those with AIDS or undergoing certain therapies. The lab investigates how the virus persists in the body and spreads to the brain, aiming to identify early biomarkers for PML and develop new treatment strategies. The research is important for improving outcomes for vulnerable populations affected by this fatal disease.
PMLJC virusimmunotherapybiomarker identificationviral persistenceextracellular vesiclesCNS infectionautoimmune diseasesbrain diseasesvirus spread
Research Aims
4AIM 01Investigate how JC virus persists in the kidneys, bone marrow, and brain.
AIM 02Explore mechanisms of viral spread to and within the central nervous system.
AIM 03Identify biomarkers that predict PML before it manifests in the CNS.
AIM 04Develop strategies to treat and prevent PML based on our findings.
Skills the Lab Values
PCRcell culturemicroRNA analysisextracellular vesicle isolationviral quantificationCNS tissue analysisanimal modelsimmunofluorescence microscopyflow cytometrybiostatistics
Output against the department
Publications137bottom 39% of dept.246th of 402
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations7.6kbottom 42% of dept.235th of 402
this lab
most citedleast cited
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